Hello to all. Happy Wednesday - midweek is already here. Hope this finds you all well.
It is a lovely sunny morning here today. It is in the 50's, going into the 70's today. Lots of dew around! Birds are singing, and the squirrels are frolicking. It is a very pretty morning.
Thus, the title to today's post. Make each day count.
I say these things, as 6 years ago today, my life changed in an instant! It was a day much like this one - very pretty. A day with plans made of things to do. Then it all changed.
I do not write this for "I'm sorry" or for you to feel sorry me. I am OK. I write this for YOU!!!
Many here know how an instant can change everything. It isn't something I would wish on anyone - ever. But it happens. It isn't easy. It is very hard. It is upsetting. It sucks - but it happens.
Glen used to always tell me, that I would outlive him - as he had medical issues. I never wanted to hear those things. But that being said, we did over the years talk about the "what if's". Our wishes, our thoughts and hopes. We took care of lots of things early in life together - for the 'just in case'.
We woke that morning and neither of us had a clue, at least I know I didn't. It was a normal morning. We woke up together, and I went to bed that night alone. Life CHANGED forever.
You all need to make sure you tell people you love them. It doesn't matter if they are a spouse, children, grands, or friends. Live your life well. Do things and enjoy.
Make the most of it. Be someone and do things, that people will remember fondly one day. Be a good memory for someone!!!
It took me a good 4 years to break out of a shell I got in - seclusion! I did things with family, but that was pretty much it. Slowly I started getting out and reacquainting myself with old friends and even meeting some new ones. I got to really know neighbors. I tried to break out of my shell a bit.
I did know the whole time - that I needed to do good wherever I could. I want to live a good life, one that would make Glen happy and proud. I still fight with myself about doing things and going places, but I am trying.
I keep him alive always. That one day was horrible, but that was ONE day. I want to remember and pass on and share all the days I got to spend with him and love him and have fun with him. The craziness, the jokes (never ending), the days we 'wondered' Indiana together, the days of camping, just the days filled with laughter and love. I talk about him and share. My family still talks about him often.
He was/is a huge part of my life, and yes, I am sad he isn't here - but what a gift I was that day I met him 1985!!!!!
So, whether it is someone or something - enjoy them every day. Don't wait for a "special day".
Use your things! If you aren't going to use your things - pass them to someone that might.
Enjoy each and every day you have with your people!!
Do things that would make them proud whether they are here or not. I am trying.
Make this a WONDERFUL DAY!!!!!!
LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL
So true, Cheryl. We never know it's the last time until it is. I've just returned from yet another funeral. There have been 21 deaths in our circle in the past 16 months. There is no life without death. I love how you keep Glen's memory alive. How could you not?
ReplyDeleteThat is an awful lot of deaths in such a short time. It seems as we get older too, that we see more of them. Nope, we never know - we just need to seize the day!
DeleteHe was a pretty darn cool guy!
I think Glen would be pleased at how you've done. Yes, it takes a long time to come to grips with such a new situation, and being grateful for past times and joy is a key.
ReplyDeleteMaryB
Thanks - I think so too.
DeleteIt does take time - different for everyone. But we need to celebrate the lives in our life - past and present.
You have amazed me with how you've dealt with that hard blow and I'm sure Glenn is very proud of you.
ReplyDeleteIt's very important for all of us to remember to celebrate every single day and moment and tell those we love how we feel.
Big hugs to you!!
Thanks. I have always been a pretty strong-willed person - but that was something different. No one knows until it happens.
DeleteYes mam, every single day and every single moment!
Yes, life is beautiful in the easy and the heartbreaking. Blessings to you. Your blog does tremendous good. Lynn, Pecos, NM
ReplyDeleteLife IS beautiful through it all. We just have to choose to see the beauty. I try to do a little bit of something to help another - hope this blog does it.
DeleteI think Glen would be very pleased with the life you've created for yourself. It's hard to believe it's been six years already. Time certainly does go by quickly the older we get.
ReplyDeleteIt's about 67 degrees here and overcast from raining. But it feels good and I've already been outside today. I hope you have a good day, Cheryl.
Thanks, I think he would too. Time does fly. Someday it feels like yesterday, and other days it seems like forever. Both kind of for the same reason!
DeleteSounds like a good day to enjoy life!
Such a thought provoking post! I agree with Belinda; I think Glen would be proud of the way you have handled your current life, helping others, and honoring him by doing so. You have such beautiful memories of your life together. We do not know when our last moment on this earth will be, nor anyone else's. Love loud and long! Use the good china, wear the pearls.
ReplyDeleteToday is a gorgeous day! Going out to work on eradicating the road lilies which have spread like wildfire. Have other plans for that bed.
I hope that you feel the love and encouragement from your readers.
Thanks. I think he might be proud. I love doing whatever I can to honor him in some way.
DeleteNope, we never know - and that is probably a good thing. Love that - live loud and long!
I feel so much love here - it has helped me through so much the past few years.
It is a gorgeous day!
Bless you, Cheryl, for keeping on. Glen would be very proud. You are making life better for those who know you.
ReplyDeleteMary in OK
Thank you. That is my goal - I sure hope I am doing it a little.
DeleteHow could Glen not be proud of you?? I sure am. I always look forward to your wonderful, uplifting, and very helpful posts! You are truly a blessing to so many more than you'll ever know. Hugs 🫂 !
ReplyDeleteLinda M
Thank you so much. I just want to make this little place in the world a bit brighter. We might as well be positive in life - since we only get one shot at it!
DeleteI so agree with you!
ReplyDeleteThank you - be blessed!
DeleteIt is natural for people to say they're sorry though. I mean sometimes folks don't know what to say so that's the words they use. I get that too. I also get how much you've changed and grown and I find you (and the other ladies who blogs I read in the same boat), amazing. You really are amazing! Keep being you. You rock.
ReplyDeleteI know it is - but it was such a gift to have him for the time I did - so I really don't want anyone to be sorry. We never know how long we get to keep people here on earth - so I am honored to have had those years.
DeleteThank you so much.
:-)
DeleteWonderful post, and yes I am sorry. You truly are a light and help to all of us and your family and friends. And, you are smart. You manage your home and life well. Glen would be so very proud. I would love to know how you met him. He sounds like a wonderful person. Love yourself well today. Eat something “junky”. 🍩🍦🍪 😉 Linda T
ReplyDeleteThanks. I appreciate your kind words. I think he is probably proud. I try!
DeleteWe lived in the same apartment building (he upstairs and me downstairs) and had a chance meeting on my patio one evening. The rest is history! I had sworn I would never marry again, and the next day after meeting him - I called mom and told her I met the man I was going to marry!!! 6 months later.... well I did!
So, so sweet. Linda T
DeleteI am kind of in that rut right now, but I am trying to get out! It is a deep rut!
ReplyDeleteHUGS sugar - it is tough. It takes time and patience with yourself. Be kind to YOU!!!!!
DeleteI've never been so fortunate to have that kind of relationship, so I can only imagine how difficult Glenn's passing was for you. But I found your blog, just shortly after and remember thinking how strong and self-reliant you were. I'm not sure every day is easy, but the steps you've taken to make a life on your own is wonderful.
ReplyDeleteThank you. We had a very loving relationship - I never thought that I would have that. We were friends as well. That made it extra nice.
DeleteIt has been a rough ride - but I was determined. All you here, have helped me so much - I don't think people realize that.
You are touching many people with your positive words and upbeat message in your blogs. I’m not much of a homemaker but I like your “wisdom” about life.
ReplyDeleteI hope I help a few along the way. After all that is what life is all about. Thank you for being here.
DeleteGood morning, Cheryl! You know my story, and I thank you for reminding us that good can continue after loss. And of the importance of telling those you care about how important they are in your life -- every single day. For me, it was a perfect sunny day, much like it is today. We'd been on Lake Michigan the day prior and that afternoon my life turned in an instant. We had not spoken of the "what if's", but as my daughter and I were packing the contents of our seasonal condo, I found that he'd set out many of the items I'd need for an entire summer, for weekends on the boat (we'd often live aboard on the weekends). The pop, beer, wine, crackers, beach towels, kitchen items, toiletries, sunscreen, etc. were all set out by the garage door. Now if he'd only laid out the paperwork I'd need in a similar fashion ... But life does move us forward. I spent weekends that summer in the company of my boating family, who fed my heart, body, and soul -- literally and figuratively. It took me about 4 1/2 years go regain a sense of normalcy. All of that paperwork and sorting through the condo made me stronger and helped me take baby steps at first, and soon I was able to move at full stride. Yet, he is with me always, guiding me and I feel him cheering me on with each accomplishment.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing that somehow he had those things set out. Oh the paperwork. I was lucky in that respect - with Glen's medical issues, he had his medical history all typed up - had all accounts and policies typed out as well. It was pretty easy getting things in order here. Now all the paperwork he kept - was another story!
DeleteI find it interesting that our situations were so different in some respects - that lets people understand both sides of things. Your time frame was similar to mine. 'Normalcy' is a good word - just getting back into the swing of things.
Yes indeed, it is a growing situation. You learn and grow and just keep moving forward. Love that you feel him 'with' you as well. That is just so comforting. We got this kiddo!
Thank you for sharing.
Like you one morning in the summer many years ago, no one in the family realized it would be the last time we would hug our 5 year old daughter. Like you, we try to live our lives to honour how she would want us to. A friendly child who would reach out to those without friends, so we do the same.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Oh my goodness, Jackie. That is the ultimate loss. I am so sorry you had to go through that. As hard as it is to lose a spouse, I can't even begin to image losing a child.
DeleteThe Lord has plans we know nothing of.
God bless you.
I came across this saying a few months ago, and it really resonated with me at that time:
ReplyDeleteAt some point you just have to let go of what you thought should happen and live in what is happening.
That is so true. We can make all the plans we want, it doesn't mean they will happen. Then we make other plans.
DeleteIt is so very hard to let go, and I guess a part never does - but we do have to go on with life.
Well said and true. Taking things and people for granted seems to be a flaw in human nature. Unexpected tragedies, losses are a wake up call to make the most of each day.
ReplyDeleteIt sure does - we just always 'assume' they will always be there. Life can knock us for a loop. Seize the day - every day.
DeleteSo much wisdom ❤️
ReplyDeleteThank you - just experience in my book. Hope it helps someone else.
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